We have just entered into the season of Advent. Traditionally celebrated the four Sundays before the winter solstice, it marks a time of introspection as we all await the return of the sun and lengthening days. This seasonal remembrance of light takes place in many cultures across the globe. At our Waldorf school, we mark this season with weekly Advent spiral walks.
The Art of Story Telling to the Preschool Child
One special part of a Waldorf Early Childhood experience is the use of puppetry to tell a story. The teacher is able to express a variety of deep story themes and soul moods with the simplest of gestures. The magic for the viewer, whether they are young or old, is that the atmosphere surrounding the story is held with complete reverence and respect. Lighting a candle and singing a simple song marks the beginning of this special time.
Time for Tea
Kindergarten Comes to Casey Farm
Jane Francis, or Miss Jane as she in known to the children of Primrose class wrote this piece about her experience taking Meadowbrook into the community with Kim Eccleston, who Miss Kim of the Morning Glory early childhood class.
Meadowbrook Waldorf kindergarten made some new friends at the farmers market recently. I wonder if you saw us at Casey Farm and came over to our “tent” to say hello?Many young children brought their parents in to play in the “kitchen” or under the silk “roof”; to take care of our beautiful dolls or just relax in the big bean bag chair. We had boys and girls cooking up delicious meals at the stove , working hard –all around the market - with the wooden wheelbarrow, setting up scenes with our wooden animals and people; some were sailing away on the rocking board or setting up house, complete with bunk beds.Everyone played so well together – a lovely morning had by all.In the middle of the morning we even had time for a puppet show. Everyone sat and relaxed while Kim enchanted us with a tale of a very wise little girl (Mashenka) who made a plan to get back to her loving home, when a large bear had other ideas!We talked to parents about the type of kindergarten experience they want for their young children: warm teachers, safe atmosphere, plenty of time outside, good food, imaginative and creative play. All in all a good foundation for the academic work of the grade school. Others were interested in our School Fairs and in the handwork groups for adults – knitting, felting and doll making seemed to be favorites. Others wanted to know if we have a summer camp (we do!).We were inspired by all the interest and questions. Many thanks to Bevan Linsley, the Coastal Growers' Market and Casey Farm for hosting us, we hope to return soon.